William H. Farquhar Middle School, Olney, MD. Photo credit: Patrick Ross
School Health Research Library
We have curated a library of peer-reviewed scientific studies from around the world published since 2016, focusing on the school built environment and occupant health and performance. This research builds on the 2017 Schools for Health: Foundations for Student Success report released by Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health that synthesizes foundational research about school indoor environmental quality impacts on students and staff.
To help translate this research into action in schools, we have compiled School Health Research Highlights to help school staff and leaders access key findings and actionable strategies on priority topics.
Displaying 231 - 240 of 680 | Export entire research library
Indoor exposure levels and risk assessment of volatile organic compounds in residences, schools, and offices in China from 2000 to 2021: A systematic review
Liu, Ningrui
This systematic review of 2000-2021 data found high indoor VOC levels in Chinese buildings, especially benzene. VOCs declined over time and were lower in eastern regions. Findings support stricter air quality standards to reduce health risks.
Keywords: None listed by authors
Measuring students’ exposure to particulate matter (PM) pollution across microenvironments and seasons using personal air monitors
Ryan, Ian
In a NYS study of 60 children, real-time PM2.5 monitoring showed higher exposure at home, especially in fall and evenings. School and transport levels stayed below EPA standards. Findings highlight home as a key PM exposure source needing further…
Keywords: None listed by authors
Relationships between social climate and indoor environmental quality and frequently reported health symptoms among teachers and staff in a suburban school district
Martenies, Sheena
In a Colorado district, 134 school staff reported weekly health symptoms, with teachers reporting more than others. Better social climate and IAQ scores were linked to fewer symptoms, though benefits were less pronounced for teachers.
Keywords: Environmental quality, Indoor air quality , School health, Social climate, Teacher health
Room-level ventilation in schools and universities
McNeill, V. Faye
This study reviews ventilation measurement methods and presents U.S. case studies across varied buildings. Room-level data gaps in schools and universities are highlighted, with examples of how ventilation data supports health-related decision-…
Keywords: Ventilation, HVAC, Indoor air, School, Sensors
Survey and Measurements of Indoor Environmental Quality in Urban/Rural Schools Located in Romania
Catalina, Tiberiu
A survey of 790 students found IEQ issues in schools, especially in rural buildings. Urban schools had better winter thermal comfort due to upgrades, but city schools faced higher CO2 and PM levels. Ventilation and heating were key concerns overall.
Keywords: Indoor environmental quality, School buildings, Survey
Per-Person and Whole-Building VOC Emission Factors in an Occupied School with Gas-Phase Air Cleaning
Stinson, Brett
Real-time VOC monitoring in a middle school air handler showed indoor sources emitted ~5.9 g/h of VOCs. Carbon scrubbing reduced supply VOCs by 38% and outdoor emissions by ~40%. Findings support gas-phase air cleaning to improve indoor and outdoor…
Keywords: Ptr-ms, Activated carbon, Indoor source strength, Indoor VOCs, Urban air quality
Trace elements in outdoor and indoor PM2.5 in urban schools in Xi'an, Western China: characteristics, sources identification and health risk assessment
Wang, Runyu
In two Xi’an middle schools, indoor and outdoor PM2.5-bound elements were elevated, with Ca, K, Fe, S, Zn, and Cl most abundant. Sources included coal, dust, and industry. Health risks from As and Cr were noted, with non-cancer risks exceeding safe…
Keywords: Indoor/outdoor, fine particulate matter (PM2.5), Heavy metals, middle school, Health risk assessment
The potential for indoor fans to change air conditioning use while maintaining human thermal comfort during hot weather: an analysis of energy demand and associated greenhouse gas emissions
Malik, Arunima
Using fans before air conditioning raised comfort thresholds and cut energy use and emissions in Australia. At 1.2 m/s fan speed, energy demand dropped 76%. Findings support fans as a sustainable way to reduce AC reliance and greenhouse gas…
Keywords: None listed by authors
Understanding teachers' experiences of ventilation in California K-12 classrooms and implications for supporting safe operation of schools in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic
Sanguinetti, Angela
A survey of 84 California teachers found poor awareness of mechanical ventilation and misperceptions of indoor air quality. Classrooms with lower ventilation were often rated more favorably. Findings highlight the need for CO₂ monitoring and…
Keywords: Air quality, Classrooms, Occupant perceptions, Thermal comfort, Ventilation
Ventilation conditions and their influence on thermal comfort in examination classrooms in times of COVID-19. A case study in a Spanish area with Mediterranean climate
Miranda, M.T.
During winter exams in higher education centers, natural ventilation kept CO₂ levels well below IDA 2 limits, reducing COVID-19 risk. However, low outdoor temperatures led to discomfort. Findings support climate-based ventilation strategies.
Keywords: Ventilation, Thermal comfort, carbon dioxide (CO₂), Ventilation rate, Indoor air quality